Becky Brawley, health director at Lubbock Health Department, said there have been no heat-related injuries reported to the department recently, but the public needs to take precautions - such as standing in the shade and taking frequent breaks when outside - to avoid such an occurrence.

Hulsey said wearing lightweight clothing that covers much of the skin not only guards against sunburn but will allow for evaporation for body cooling.

"Another thing is make sure you're acclimated to the conditions," he said. "What we see from college football players from Wyoming or South Dakota that never experience the Texas heat in the summer, their bodies aren't used to it. They're at a much higher risk.

"The same is true for the general public. Maybe you're on vacation, or here from a cooler part of the world; it's probably a good idea to really monitor any signs of heat stress."

Hikers are at a higher risk at Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the summer.

Park superintendent Cory Evans recommends hiking be done from 8 to 11 a.m., and that hikers take one quart of fluid per person for every mile they plan to hike.

"I think, too, when you're hiking in the canyon to remember that the temperatures on the canyon floor are going to be 8 to 10 degrees hotter than at the top," Evans said.

"Weather forecasts will reflect temperatures at the top, so if it's forecast for 100 degrees, it's going to be about 110 at the bottom."

The Red Cross recommends staying indoors and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, but staying inside has its costs as well.

According to Lubbock Power & Light, an average home can consume as much as 50 percent more energy in the summer than the winter, depending on its insulation and how often the doors in the house are kept open or closed.

That can mean a big increase in the bill - an increase not everyone can handle.

The Texas Apartment Association is promoting its Neighbors CARE program to help prevent heat-related injuries to residents.

Established in 1988, this program encourages neighbors to care for each other to reduce the risk.

David Mintz, TAA vice president and government affairs spokesperson, said it is important to be more conscious of neighbors and check on them, especially the elderly.

He said if people do not know their neighbors already, hopefully the Neighbors CARE program can help people realize they should get to know them.

"It's not only important for general safety and community, but also to help watch out for each other on a personal level and increase the sense of community," he said.

The program emphasizes checking on neighbors daily, especially those who are more susceptible to the heat.

Mintz said people should take all precautions when it comes to heat stress, and if there are any concerns regarding the safety of neighbors, always report them to local authorities.

Columnist Jon Mark Beilue can be reached at jon.beilue@amarillo.com.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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